Andrew Bynum Says Lakers Traded #1 for #2; has advice for Dwight Howard: Get Used to Not Touching the Ball with Kobe Around

Bynum on the other hand had no problem talking about Howard and the Lakers.

He says he understands Howard’s challenges, because it’s not easy getting used to playing next to Kobe Bryant. It’s the kind of thing that could stunt a players growth. From CSNPhilly.com.

“I think Dwight’s a great player, but he’s going to have
to get accustomed to playing with Kobe obviously, and not touching the
ball every single play,” Bynum said…

“Later I thought I was able to get the ball more and do more things
with the ball, so I could definitely see how at the end it could stunt
growth,” Bynum said. “Winning championships there was fun. But obviously
my time there is done. Health is the main concern with me now.

“I don’t regret anything. Personally, they traded No. 1 for No. 2 and that is what happened.”

Bynum’s not wrong, this season will be an adjustment for Howard. His
points per game is down two from last season, which not so
coincidentally is how many fewer shots a game Howard is getting this
season over last.

Howard would happily make that sacrifice if it meant winning games, and eventually playoff games. So far it really hasn’t. When Steve Nash and Pau Gasol
return to the Lakers lineup — both of which could happen this week —
the Lakers are going to look to Howard to won the boards and the
defensive paint, then get his points. How much he’s willing to make that
sacrifice may depend on wins.

As for Bynum, he just needs to get on the court. He has long thought
he should get more touches in the Lakers offense, that he should be more
of a focal point. He’s got that now. He’s the man. Well, he will be
once he gets on the court. Which is part o the reason the Lakers were
willing, even eager, to make this trade.